Do I Teach Subjects to Children or Children to Understand Subjects?  Huh?

“I am a teacher.  I am a licensed social studies teacher.  My teaching assignment is middle school social studies; 7th and 8th grade, to be exact.  These are statements about my profession, my licensure, and my teaching assignment.  They are … Continue reading

Disaggregated, There Is a Vast Difference in Teachers

Teachers are a vast hodgepodge of people.  They come in all colors, shapes and sizes, and from the wide spectrum of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.  At one point, each decided to be a teacher.  Some early in life, the majority … Continue reading

When Trust Is Reciprocal, Great Things Happen

“In my last visits to your classroom, I was not certain I was in a math class.  You and your students were talking about current events on three consecutive days”, her principal told her. “It’s my classroom and I will … Continue reading

Inspired Principal + Teacher Cadre = Change Agency

Effective school leadership is a lonely voyage without collaborating partners.  When a leader understands distributed leadership and emboldens a cadre of like-minded colleagues to use their knowledge and skills to advance a school mission, loneliness turns into camaraderie.  A cadre … Continue reading

To Stop Teacher Shortages and Attrition Pay More and Support Better

“Is the grass really greener elsewhere?”.  Many teachers consider this question at several times in their careers.  Actually, the question is not worded correctly.  “Is the grass where I stand green enough for me now and for my future” is … Continue reading